New smartphone app helps people avoid suicidal thoughts

A new smartphone app can help those struggling with thoughts of suicide

New York: A new smartphone app can help those struggling with thoughts of suicide.

The Broome HOPE app allows people to recognise warning signs of suicide and start a conversation.

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The app, recently launched in Broome County, US, also connects users who show warning signs of suicide to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Suicide warning signs can include a person saying he or she has no reason to live or feels trapped, and behavioural changes such as isolation from family and friends, depression, recklessness and giving away prized posessions.

Broome Deputy Commissioner of Mental Health Katie Cusano said that the new app will help show people the right ways to approach thoughts of suicide, 'Press & Sun-Bulletin' reported.

The app's information is categorised by group, including adults, teens, young adults and veterans.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death for Americans in 2013.